Cobblestone Paving, Cobbles & Stone Setts: What's the Difference?

Ask three people what a cobblestone is and you will probably get three different answers. Online, in builders' merchants, and even within the paving trade, "cobblestones", "cobbles", "setts" and "cobblestone paving" are often used interchangeably, yet technically they describe different forms of stone, with different appearances, applications and results underfoot So what does cobblestone mean, and what does cobbled mean in practice? This guide untangles the terminology, explains where each product came from, and helps you choose the right one for your drive, path, patio or border.

What are cobblestones? Definition, origins and history

A cobblestone, or cobble, is usually a naturally rounded stone, shaped by weathering and water movement and traditionally gathered from riverbeds and coastlines. The word comes from "cob", an old term for a rounded lump, which is a good description of the shape. Because they were abundant and free, cobbles were used for roads, paths and carriageways in many British towns, set into the ground by hand long before anyone thought to cut stone to size.

So what are cobblestones made of? Whatever the local geology provided. Today, most natural stone cobbles are hard, dense rock such as granite or basalt, with softer sandstone cobbles and limestone cobbles chosen for their warmer colours. Commercially available landscaping cobbles may also be selected, tumbled or otherwise processed to give a more consistent size and finish. Each stone is still slightly different in shape and tone, which is exactly the appeal: a cobbled surface looks as though it has always been part of the landscape.

Geologists give the word a precise meaning. On the Wentworth scale, which classifies rock fragments by size, a cobble is a stone between 64mm and 256mm across (you can read more about the grain size scale if you are curious). In landscaping, the term is used more loosely, but the idea is the same: a rounded, hand-sized stone. You can browse our cobbles and setts to see how the real thing looks.

What is the maximum size of a cobble?

By the geological definition, the maximum size of a cobble is 256mm across, with the minimum at 64mm. Anything larger is classed as a boulder, and anything smaller is a pebble or gravel.

In garden and landscape use, cobbles tend to sit at the smaller end of that range, because stones this size are easy to handle and bed in neatly. Smaller cobbles suit edging and decorative borders, while larger ones work well as feature panels, drainage runs, or a bold edge to a lawn. Whatever the size, a cobblestone square or panel laid as a decorative inset is a lovely way to add texture to a larger area of flat paving.

What are stone setts? How they differ from cobbles

If cobbles are shaped by nature, stone setts are shaped by people. A sett is a small block of stone, typically quarried and then cut, cropped or dressed into a regular shape with a flat top and clean edges. The word comes from "set", because the blocks were set into the ground in ordered rows. Historically, granite setts paved the busy streets of Britain's towns and ports, chosen because they could take years of carts, horses and later motor traffic.

The key differences from cobbles are straightforward:

Setts are typically made from granite, limestone or sandstone, and are usually small enough to be laid in rows, arcs, fans or a classic square pattern. Because their depth and edges are consistent, they sit tightly together and generally give a flatter, more stable surface under regular foot and vehicle traffic than rounded stones. That is why setts are the usual choice for driveways and formal garden paving, and why our pathway setts work so well where a path needs to look traditional but also stay comfortable underfoot.

Cobblestone paving: where the term comes from

If setts and cobbles are different, why does everyone say "cobblestone paving"? Largely because the old street surfaces were all called cobbles, whether the stones were rounded or cut. The name stuck, and today it is used for almost any small-unit stone paving: paving cobblestone, cobblestone paths, and cobblestone patio designs are all very often built from setts rather than true cobbles. In the UK, "sett" is the more precise term for a dressed paving block, but "cobblestone paving" remains the broad term most people search for, and the product behind it may technically be either cobbles or setts.

Knowing the difference helps you ask for the right product, and avoid being surprised when a rounded, rustic stone turns out to be uncomfortable to walk on with heels or push a pram across.

Uses and design ideas: driveways, patios, paths and edging

Driveways. For most domestic driveways, setts are the more practical choice. Their flat tops and consistent depth create a stable, trafficable surface, and the small units can be laid in patterns such as fans or arcs for a classic look. Correctly installed natural cobbles can work in some vehicle settings, as they historically did on roads and carriageways, but their rounded, irregular form is generally less comfortable and less stable underfoot and under a car. Take a look at our options for driveway paving and cobbles.

Garden paths. Both work beautifully. Cobbles bring rustic charm and suit informal, cottage-style borders, while setts give a path structure and crisper lines.

Patios. Setts are most common here, because the flat surface suits tables and chairs. Many gardeners combine a main area of patio slabs with a border or inset of setts for contrast.

Decorative panels and infill. Cobbles shine as feature insets, circles at the centre of a terrace, or textured transitions between paving and planting.

As a rule of thumb, cobbles give a natural, heritage feel, while setts suit more structured and contemporary designs. Using both together, setts for the main surface and cobbles for edges and details, often gives the most interesting result.

Cobblestone edging: how to use cobbles as garden borders

Cobble edging is one of the most popular uses of natural cobbles in British gardens. Cobblestone edging works around driveways, paths, flower beds and lawns, framing them with a soft, natural line that suits both traditional and modern planting.

The appeal is practical as well as visual. Stone is extremely durable, will not rot or rust, and develops a lovely patina over time. Cobblestone edgers also help hold back gravel and soil while still looking relaxed rather than rigid. For edging, smaller cobbles work best, because they are easy to bed in a neat row and sit neatly against lawn or planting.

A tip for a more natural look: mix two or three sizes of cobble rather than using identical stones. Slight variation in height and width stops the border looking mechanical and helps it blend with the surrounding garden. For other options, see our range of garden path edging.

How to lay cobblestone: driveway and path guide

The method is broadly the same for setts and cobbles, though setts are easier to keep level. The depths below are typical, so always follow the manufacturer's guidance and consider professional installation for driveways, where ground conditions and loading matter.

1. Mark out and excavate. Dig to the depth needed for sub-base, bedding layer and stone. Driveways need a deeper dig than paths.
2. Install edge restraints. Cobbles and setts need a firm edge to stop them spreading. Concrete haunching or a solid kerb is the usual approach.
3. Lay and compact the sub-base. Use a well-graded aggregate such as MOT Type 1, compacted in layers. A driveway typically needs at least 150mm, and more for heavy vehicles or soft ground.
4. Add the bedding layer. Lay a bed of sharp sand and cement or a semi-dry mortar mix, usually around 30 to 50mm deep, and screed it level.
5. Set the stones. Press each sett or cobble firmly into the bed, working from one corner and checking levels and falls regularly. Keep joints tight and consistent.
6. Fill the joints. Brush a suitable jointing material into the gaps, then clean off any excess before it sets. Our patio grout is designed for this.
7. Allow to cure, then seal if desired. Keep traffic off until the bed has fully cured.

To lay cobblestone edging, follow the same principle on a smaller scale: dig a narrow trench, add a bed of mortar, press the cobbles in to the same height, and haunch the back with concrete for stability. If you are paving a front garden, remember that rules on permeable surfacing may apply, so check current guidance first. Our laying guides cover the detail.

Buying guide: choosing between cobbles and setts

Beyond the type, think about material and colour. Granite is the hardest wearing and suits heavy use, while sandstone and limestone offer warmer, softer tones. Whichever you choose, order samples and look at them in your own light, against your own house and planting. Consistent depth matters most for setts, so check the specification before you buy. If you are unsure which suits your project, our team is always happy to talk it through, and you can order a sample to see and feel the stone before you commit.

Frequently asked questions

What are cobblestones? Cobblestones, or cobbles, are usually naturally rounded stones, shaped by weathering and water and traditionally gathered from riverbeds and coastlines to pave roads, paths and yards.

What does cobblestone mean? It refers to a rounded stone used for paving. The word "cobble" comes from "cob", an old term for a rounded lump. In everyday use, it is often applied to any small-unit stone paving.

What does cobbled mean? A cobbled surface is one paved with cobbles or similar small stones, giving an uneven, textured finish.

What is a cobble? A cobble is a rounded stone between 64mm and 256mm across, according to the geological Wentworth scale.

What are cobblestones made of? Typically hard natural stone such as granite or basalt, with sandstone and limestone cobbles also used for their warmer colours.

What is the difference between cobblestone and setts? Cobblestones are usually naturally rounded and irregular, while setts are typically quarried and then cut, cropped or dressed into regular blocks with flat tops and consistent depth. Many surfaces sold as "cobblestone paving" are technically made from setts.

Ready to explore cobbles and setts?

Now you know your cobbles from your setts, the best next step is to see the stone for yourself. Explore our cobbles and setts to find the right size, material and finish for your drive, path, patio or border, or get in touch with our team if you would like help choosing.

About the Author

Sian McHugh

'Sian has been working with us at Westminster Stone for over 7 years and has developed expertise in garden design and landscaping. Her passion for nature extends to tending her own garden, teaching yoga and hiking during her free time.'